ORHMA launches new branch in Simcoe County

By Chris McGregor,
Contributing editor

BARRIE—Those in the hotel and restaurant industry in the Barrie area now have a voice with the Ontario Restaurant, Hotel and Motel Association (ORHMA). The newly-created Simcoe County chapter is the first new branch in the province in 10 years. 

The branch board of directors, led by founder and Georgian College instructor John Cunningham, and made up of 10 active members in the restaurant and hotel business, held their first meeting in February.

They are: Marcia Budd, Birchmere Retirement Residence, Terry McNaughton, Ossawippi Express Dining, Michelle McNaney, the Comfort Inn and Maureen Way, Stonegate Inn, all located in Orillia. Barrie-based board members are: Daniel Clements, Porterhouse Restaurants, John Cunningham, Georgian Dining Room, Juri Daniel, Downtowner Bar and Grill, Brenda Lucas, Comfort Inn, and Cheryl Lawson, Georgian Hospitality Programs. The Collingwood representative is James Henry, Westin Trillium House. Two hospitality students from Georgian College also have seats on the board.

Cunningham said the existence of a local chapter is an opportunity for the entire local business community in Simcoe County.

“Given the current political and economic climate, there could not be a more appropriate time to mobilize a business community with a direct link to provincial affairs in the accommodations and foodservice sector,” Cunningham said.

He said the benefits include a connection to ORHMA lobbyists at Queen’s Park, elimination of the fragmentation of the hotel and restaurant industry in the region, a more coordinated business community, and access to those with outside experience and current industry information.

“Expanding our regions is an approach that will bring the industry closer, benefitting not only the local climate, but building a stronger voice in Ontario,” said ORHMA president Tony Elenis, in a statement.

“Simcoe County presents a quality hospitality product and developing a presence in this vibrant region will help foster a strong industry.”

The ORHMA represents more than 11,000 hotel and restaurant operators across Ontario.